Royal Challengers Bangalore wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has smashed 197 runs from six innings in the IPL 2022 at a strike rate of 209.6. Ex-New Zealand international Simon Doull believes he should be part of India’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in Australia.
After being dropped from India’s limited overs sides in a rather unfair manner, Karthik made a strong case for a comeback with spectacular performances in the IPL 2022. The 36-year-old has been perfect in his role as a finisher for RCB in the ongoing edition. Former Kiwi pace bowler turned broadcaster Doull has backed Karthik to make a return.
Karthik last played for the national side in the semi-final of the 2019 ODI World Cup, after that loss India didn’t include him in the future ODI plans. You can say that was the right decision, but the management did not consider him for T20I selection as well, despite Karthik being one of the best performing finishers in the game.
Speaking on the Star Sports show after RCB’s match against Delhi Capitals, Doull discussed the options Team India has for the upcoming World Cup and felt that Karthik has a real shot at making the squad as a specialist batter.
“I was thinking about DK going to Australia later on this year. India have got Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul as the backup keeper.
Maybe he now goes into the team as a backup batter. He can bat at number six or seven… even number five. He is playing so well and with so much confidence at the moment.
He’s got all the skills to play when his team is in trouble, and find boundaries as well. I think that’s the difference between some of the other batters and DK at present,”
Doull said.
The Tamil Nadu veteran was bought by the Royal Challengers for INR 5.50 Crore and has been given a clear role in the side. Karthik has looked in glorious touch this season, scoring 197 runs at a strike rate of 209.6 and has only been dismissed once. His highest score of the tournament came against DC in the last game, where he powered his side to 189/5 with a magnificent 66* off 34 balls.
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